Health problems

Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases include conditions that affect the heart and the blood vessels.
Risk factors for cardiovascular diseases include: genetic predisposition, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, excessive alcohol consumption and tobacco use.
Psychosocial stress, particularly chronic or long-term stress, is a significant predictor of cardiovascular diseases.

Mental Health Issues

Mental health disorders are psychological conditions that result in changes in thought processes, emotions, and behaviour.
Some common mental health disorders are depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia and eating disorders.
Stigma, lack of understanding, and cultural beliefs about mental health issues often prevent people from seeking help.
Both biological and environmental factors contribute to mental health disorders; those with a family history of mental health disorders are at higher risk.

Addiction Disorders

Substance use disorders, or addiction disorders, such as alcohol addiction and drug addiction, are chronic diseases that can lead to severe physical and psychological health problems.
Addiction affects the brain’s reward system, leading to compulsive substance use and a lack of control over intake.
Effective treatment for addiction disorders often involves a combination of medication, cognitive behavioural therapy, and support groups to help manage the cravings and prevent relapse.

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are severe conditions related to persistent eating behaviours negatively impacting health, emotions, and the ability to function in crucial areas of life.
They include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder.
These disorders often develop in adolescence but can occur at any age, with a higher incidence in females than males.
Recognising the early signs of an eating disorder can aid in seeking early treatment and increase the likelihood of recovery.

Obesity

Obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. It significantly increases the risk of numerous health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Contributing factors to obesity include genetics, diet high in unhealthy food, lack of physical activity, and certain medical conditions.
Psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem are common in individuals with obesity.
Treatment often includes changes in diet, increased physical activity, behaviour changes, and sometimes weight-loss medicines or surgery.

Cancer

Cancer is a group of diseases characterised by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells.
Risk factors include age, exposure to tobacco smoke, exposure to certain chemicals and substances, certain dietary factors, certain hormonal factors, radiation exposure, lack of physical activity, and certain inherited gene changes.
Psychological stress related to a cancer diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact the patient’s quality of life and recovery.
Early detection and proper treatment can significantly improve survival rates.